Affordable Style Secrets from the Pros

Varied Tastes

Avoid being too balanced or having too many matching sets. Russo and Adams like to mix it up by grouping odd numbers of accessories, such as candles or pillows. Instead of having matching throw pillows on each end of the sofa, try two on one side and one on the other. Select them based on complementary colors, textures, and style.

Shop at fabric stores for pillows, linens, and napkins. “It’s usually cheaper to buy fabric than purchase finished linens,” Russo says. “For simple pillows, I take the materials to the dry cleaner and ask for their tailor to make them. Most dry cleaners will sew linens for a fraction of the usual cost.” For table runners, she tears silk or linen and uses Dritz Fray Check to keep the edges from unraveling.